Lest we forget our four legged diggers served too

The "Animal" Poppy

Most people are unaware that as well as the traditional red poppy worn to mark the Armistice Day of 11 November 1918, that there is also the purple poppy,
remembering animals that died during conflict.

To commemorate all the animal deeds and sacrifices in war, the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (AWAMO) has issued a purple poppy,
which can be worn alongside the traditional red one. Just like other countries including the United Kingdom people are encouraged to wear the purple poppy alongside
the traditional red poppy as a reminder that both humans and animals have and continue to serve.

Working in collaboration with the RSL, AWAMO have released the "We Serve Together" Dual Red and Purple poppy pin.
Proceeds from the sale of the "We Serve Together" pin go to AWAMO to help fund war animal monuments,
the training of support animals for returned soldiers with PTSD, welfare kits for war animals retired due to injury,
illness after active deployment and to Mates 4 Mates Equine therapy program.

The Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation

Throughout our nation's history in theatres of combat around the world, animals have served and protected members of Australia's Armed Forces.

AWAMO is a volunteer organisation made up of community members from diverse backgrounds that have the like-minded aim to recognise the deeds of animals during Australian military service and to educate the next generation of Australians to understand the sacrifices of our four legged diggers have made.

Funds raised from donation and the sale of purple poppies are used by AWAMO to establishing memorials around Australia and overseas in places like France and Gallipoli to recognise the sacrifice animals have made in the aid or comfort of defence personnel.

We all remember the story of Simpson and his donkey and as far back as the Boer war horses that carried our soldiers across the veldt in the Boer War. Animals continue to serve in places like Afghanistan, where explosive detection dogs and their handlers work the frontline and animals have helped soldiers cope with post-traumatic stress.

Your support will help Australia's war animals receive the recognition they deserve "Lest we forget our four legged diggers served too". You can find more information about AWAMO here